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England international
Peter Richards has been forced to retire from rugby due to injury.

Richards, 32, has not played since February because of a back problem, and he steps down with immediate effect on specialist medical advice.

Peter Richards

Scrum-half Richards is in his second spell with London Irish. He also played for Gloucester, Wasps, Bristol, Harlequins and Italian club Treviso, winning the Heineken Cup with Wasps and European Challenge Cup while at Gloucester.

He gained England honours at every level, making his senior Test debut against Australia in 2006 and going on to win 13 caps, including an appearance as a replacement in the 2007 World Cup final.

Richards was additionally an integral part of successful England sevens squads, notably the victorious Hong Kong-winning team of 2004.

“I’ve had a great career and thoroughly enjoyed my rugby wherever I’ve played,” he said.

“I would like to have continued on for another couple of seasons. Unfortunately, that is not going to be physically possible.

“I would like to thank all the players, coaches and management and supporters at all the clubs I’ve played with for their help, friendship and encouragement.”